We would like to say a big thank you to Claire Sutton for her loyalty and dedication to QVCUK over the last 22 years. Her team spirit and enthusiasm will be greatly missed and we would like to send Claire and her family our warmest wishes for now and the future.

The post It’s been a pleasure – thank you for 22 years appeared first on Stories.

And oh my goodness, having watched a blackbird tirelessly collect worms and take them into the hedge for his family – I am in awe! We think we work hard, but it’s been seriously constant for little Mr Blackbird! He is adorable to watch.

It’s been ALL about the birds and the bees this week. Paprika, one of our newest chickens, escaped and found her way into the school playing field behind us, and I think the school children got a little more than they bargained for! They were delighted and so very excited when she shimmied down and laid her very first egg, whilst they watched. Bless her… can you imagine having an audience at such an intimate moment?

I should imagine the teachers had quite a challenge on their hands answering all the inevitable questions!

The trouble is, Paprika has now got a taste for freedom and she’s leading Chilli astray. They are somehow climbing up and out, trashing the flowerbeds and are constantly being retrieved and -I hate to say it – put in ‘lockdown’, whilst we try to work out how they are managing it!

Speaking of birds and bees this week, my foxgloves were the source of buzzing business with huge and fluffy bees relentlessly seeking out the pollen. Back and forth they go all day long, it’s such a pleasure to watch and listen to, in what’s felt like a simple week with minimal big achievements  – but it’s another week closer to us all experiencing a new version of life again.

Actually, it’s been a big old reminiscing kind of week as I recorded a podcast with Will Gowing for Inside QVC. We discussed my childhood, my school life, dancing and all sorts of things! I could see Will on the screen so I did chat to him as such, but I think if we had been together and not recording remotely we would have laughed all the way through and it would have probably taken twice as long to record!

Afterwards, I replayed in my head all the things I had said didn’t say and I started to feel incredibly anxious. I was even debating about calling Will and saying STOP! Scrap the whole thing!!

I didn’t, and instead I sat with the feelings during my mindful practice and realise I’m so judgmental on myself. I’m my own worst critic, which is actually unkind and terribly unhelpful, isn’t it? So, you’ll be pleased to know I’m now at the ‘I did it and what I said is ok because it comes from my heart’ stage! I hope you enjoy listening to it when it’s released, because I truly enjoyed recording it.

In this delightful weather my garden is blooming gloriously, if I do say so myself!

I’m joining some of the other presenters in a Lily competition, although my bulbs were late arrivals, so I’m hoping with my watering, combined with Richard Jackson’s Flower Power, that they will catch up and be in the race! How they have now ended up nestling together when I gave each of them growing space, I do not know!

I have just fed our poorly Olive Trees with a rather interesting formula… having dosed them with Flower Power I thankfully started to see some green shoots appear, then my eye was caught by an article about Llamas and olive trees ! So now my olive trees are being fed with… Llama poo!!! I will let you know if it works… perhaps Richard can look to tweak his formulations with it!!

Talking of formulations and delightful weather, Ultrasun has a TSV offer on Monday! The four-piece collection (241043) will include a choice between Glimmer SPF 20 in the Glamour option or the Family SPF 30 in the – you guessed it – Family option, plus After Sun Tan Booster, Sports Spray SPF 30 and Lip Protection SPF 30.

The set is designed to care for us both during and, very importantly, after sun exposure. Having listened to Abi Cleeve on the Inside QVC podcast, I was most impressed with her passion and knowledge.I feel even educated and therefore even more aware.

The After Sun Tan Booster is a new formula for me and beautifully cooling to use, plus I love the idea that it’s boosting my colour. The Lip Protection included is always a repeat order for me as I use it every single night as well as in the sunshine.

I’m interested to see if I can get my boys out in the sun with the ease of the Sport formula, which is light and mist-like, so the ‘I hate the application of sun cream’ will no longer be an excuse for not getting outside! Pale, pasty, spotty and probably lacking in Vitamin D… that’s my boys. Maddie, on the other hand, is regularly basking in her bikini with the Family SPF 30 safely applied and her freckles looking beautiful.

I’ve been prepping in the garden this week for the forthcoming Liz Earle shows. As always, it’s such a great offering currently on pre-launch with new launches of the lightweight Brightening Eye Cream and a new and supersized edition of the iconic Cleanse and Polish, but infused with neroli. It is simply wonderful and creates an utter pleasure out of the ordinary, yet necessary ritual of cleansing.

And never underestimate the power of Instant Boost Skin Tonic applied before the also neroli-infused Superskin Moisturiser, which is always my choice. The result is softer, happy and clear skin.

Even though we may be wearing less make-up and maybe yes, there’s a little less pollution in the air, it’s still super important to get rid of the toxins from the day (and night) and of course the sun protection we are using… if not, why not?!

Order the collection now, so you can beat the rush and retain the calm, mindful Zen-like approach to life that we are trying to cultivate… or is it just me??!!

Ok, I have a chicken house to escape-proof and then a 2.30pm prep call from the States (get me!) with Korres, yet another amazing and fabulous offer this weekend and then… a day bed to lie on because today, inside the house can just jolly well wait!

***

Oh my word… I’ve just come off the prep call and had to add this to my blog, as there is such excitement from Liz and the Korres team… the last two of their TSVs sold out early! So it’s definitely one to look at super quickly.

This Saturday’s TSV from them is fabulously priced and there are two of the incredible Body Butter Sprays, which are not available on the high street.

The founder Lena Korres created these formulas in a kitchen! She has the ability to turn thick, unctuous Shea butter into a liquid and crystallise it, so MORE of the Shea can be incorporated. This results in more fabulous hydration and firmness being so lightly delivered, with no stickiness.

The choices of the fragrances are absolutely stunning. I’ve been loving the Greek Sea Lavender scent – it’s seriously fulfilling the holiday dream with the Agean breeze being captured incredibly well. That being said, choose away as there are 7 wonderful options.

And heads-up menopausal skin… the White Pine Concentrate due on my show at 11am on Saturday had initially SOLD OUT – before Liz even spoke! The story is amazing. I won’t share now but suffice to say… I’m ordering it!

There, I’m happy now as I needed to share!

Huge love and a virtual hug (because I know so many of you are missing them so).

Claire xx

The post The birds, the bees… and amazing beauty offers! appeared first on Stories.

I do hope you are all managing ok as it’s a definite twisty, turny road, isn’t it?

My gang and I have good and bad days, some pressure cooker moments – mostly from me. There’s a general ‘mooching along’ kind of vibe from the teens in the house.

We have eaten well, and in between working I have tried hard to coordinate Tom’s college work and nag gently/forcefully both Maddie and Joe on doing some school work. I am aware however, that this is a chunk of time we will never have again with a slowed pace for them and connections remade.

There’s been a fair few moments of jostling of personalities and whilst my neighbours may disagree, a fairly harmonious albeit slightly lazy household has ensued… (I wrote that earlier this week and now thinking if I wrote that today it may sound a little less chilled! I’m a bit tetchy today (I know!). Isn’t it amazing how we vary daily? I shall continue to practice my Compassionate Mindfulness, as it’s clearly much needed today!

We celebrated Toms’ 19th Birthday, which was ok according to Tom (!). When he was asked to write about it for his college work, I thought ‘OK, OK?’ I’ll give you ‘OK’ young man… I was shattered, I’ll have you know.

From a breakfast prepared by Maddie as Dan and I had to work first thing, Tom was not impressed. Mind you, neither were Joe and Maddie when woken up before 6.30am, which has certainly NOT happened since lockdown. But when your big brother demands his presents … we all toe the line.

It did rather set the tone of the day, as when I returned home from work I gave him a pedicure with Margaret Dabbs London. He approved, although it is rather ticklish. I may have to book him into one of the clinics!

Maddie and I popped a turbie twist on him and performed a facial with Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser and a lovely massage with my oils to follow.

Although, he appeared to grimace his way through it all I see. He was clearly not appreciating how very lucky he was to have such a hands on experience, especially at this time!!!

There were chocolates galore and gifts dropped at the doorstep, chats through car windows and much excitement each time the gravel on the drive crunched, signalling yet another delivery! Beer, balloons and homemade cakes were all accompanied with so much love and when Dominoes delivered tea, his birthday was made.

Pizza, beer and chocolate cake… a 19th birthday well celebrated.

Thank you to all of you for his gorgeous birthday messages on Instagram, I was so touched and it was a very happy day.

It was indeed a week of celebration with Tom’s birthday at the start of the week and the wonderful VE Day celebrations on Friday. I felt so emotional watching the footage. The poignant voice overs where memories were recalled, which made my own current difficulties pale into insignificance in comparison.

If you were wondering about the photo above, I decided ahead of my shows on QVC on the same morning that I would try to recreate an authentic look with my hair and make-up. I was pretty proud of the result and felt very ladylike and glam – gosh what an era though, and goodness they must have been proficient. I wished I could have leapt back in time to watch them doing their hair and getting ready – I could have stolen some tips!

I hope you enjoyed the coverage and had some fun celebrating. It felt delightfully old fashioned in many ways introducing oneself to neighbours at a distance. It reminded me of street parties we had when I young… happy memories.

Actually there have been a few moments over these last few months that have felt similar to when I was a child, where I endlessly filled my days with walks with my best friend Gillie.

We would make perfume with rose petals we collected as we rearranged and tidied the graves in the Cemetery, which was our favourite place to eat away the time. The days felt long and we had promise ahead of us… I feel I must try and tap into those moments now, because a lot will be changing and the time will no doubt march on faster once again… before I feel ready, I’m sure.

My running (ok, ok, it’s debatable to call it running just yet) – my Couch to 5K that I am trying to do is coming along with my final run of week 4 to complete. I cannot say I like it, will I ever? I’m not sure, although I’m assured I will get the bug.

It’s challenging as I’m not a runner, but there’s a sense of accomplishment, which is great and I’m enjoying the ever changing landscape where something always catches my attention: from clock dandelions to caterpillars, I make mental notes to stop and look on my cool-down walk as I simply cannot pause when I have to run, or else I may never start again!

Since I wrote this I had a tumble, resulting in a rather bruised chin and knee, it’s horrid falling and skidding and rather spectacularly I must say! Especially when you are a grown up, no one saw me, I lay still for a moment or two and almost turned around and headed home.

But…I didn’t! I carried on and was met by a very sweet daughter, looking concerned by my bedraggled grubby appearance. We still managed to laugh, although I appreciated her ‘hug better’ that’s for sure.

As I write now I’m aching , but still going …today is week five and the second run, I must complete my challenge as all my other wish list things like painting and gilding have as yet eluded me !)

So what’s new in the world of QVC?

There’s, as always, so much to enjoy. From the necessities to the luxuries, we can help you organise and priorities, with treats for you or a gift to send.

I just want to thank those of you who have taken a moment to thank US for keeping you company and cheering you up. I can honestly tell you that we are so very thankful to YOU for your company and for your kind and warmest wishes.

I shall be joining you on Tuesday with Rylan and his Luxenoa collection. I so hope he’s ‘in’ studio safely with me.

Today’s Special Value on Tuesday will be the gorgeous Radley Grove Garden handbag (184360) currently only available with us at QVC, which always feels special.

I love the wider guitar strap, which feels very cool at the moment and it’s cross body – so nice, practical and comfy. The bag itself is neat with a flap over front and two zipped compartments inside. The hard part (if you are like me!) will be deciding on the colour!

With Pink, Green or Tan in the plain leather or textured croc-style versions in Black, Chalk and Denim, plus a grainy leather design.

The week is looking mighty fine with a couple of Big Deals that I am certainly interested in. I love the Eco Refill collection that L’Occitane has on offer to replenish the Liquid Hand Soap included.

There is much cooking going on in the house, both by Tom with his weekly FaceTime with one of his carers, as well as Dan creating so many amazing dishes with our pizza oven. It’s like Master Chef here some days!

Maddie and I laugh when Dan is out and we suggest having some ‘beige food’ as a treat! Shhh, do not tell him!!

Luckily we have a butcher close by where our meat comes from, but if you are struggling to get out then we have a couple of meat hampers by Althams available that you could have delivered. Don’t forget to use the FOOD3Z code on all your food orders as then you can have three Easy Pay instalments!

I am excited about a couple of new fashion pieces I have ordered and great finds spotted on My Little Eye. So I’ll be looking out for parcels, along with new washing-up bowls and clothes pegs… it’s not all glamour here, you know!!

By the way, I know I said it would be competition time in my last blog, but out-of-my-control- timings, lockdown and all that jazz means it will have to be in my next blog!

I do hope you are keeping as perky as possible and enjoying some of the simpler things. Try hard not to berate yourselves for achieving seemingly nothing and instead congratulate yourselves for getting through your day.

I’m now going to take my own advice and congratulate myself for actually completing my blog (after many thwarted attempts). A cup of tea as a reward is coming right up !

Lots of love and stay in touch

Claire xx

The post VE Day, birthday treats and busy times! appeared first on Stories.

How are you managing through all of this? There are differences aplenty in all our lives and differences daily with our approaches to everything, that’s for sure.

I certainly continue to look with interest (and annoyance sometimes, it has to be said!) at our family dynamic and the five different personalities that are jostling under one roof.

The big realisation is, while we are all technically reading the same book so-to-speak, blimey aren’t we all on different pages or what?! Like a good Book Club, we are full of differing opinions about those same words and paragraphs.

A debate over food occurred just now that was started by Dan. He suggested that Joe should find a recipe and cook the family a meal tonight…

Maddie took umbrage as she had made an amazing lasagne for last night’s meal, which was delicious. It was SO nice to have it all prepared by SOMEONE ELSE! I think she enjoyed the praise and was then put out by the thought that Joe may now take her mantle…

I then chimed in with: “maybe not tonight as there’s a fridge full of things that need to be worked through”, such as veg and fresh Jersey Royal Potatoes that we had delivered this week. It’s such a pleasure unpacking the box weekly – I’m incredibly grateful that I had this set up locally before we entered into this situation.

I then offered up that I’m struggling with eating so late. It’s not good for me and I don’t NEED as much food as everyone else. I can’t keep going to sleep on a full tummy ahead of an early alarm for work. No wonder I’m gaining around the flipping waist!

This later meal is due to the fact that there’s such a late start for the teens. If I hear again at 4.45pm: “I’m just getting some lunch” …I mean, come on! (And breathe…)

I think I feel a little better after getting that off my chest, and we are now eating at 6pm!!! Communication is without a doubt required at the best of times, and most definitely needed now.

Also, where on earth everyone is getting the time (or inclination) to FaceTime, Zoom, WhatsApp etc. etc…? I am either plain lazy as I still haven’t hung up the clothes in my room, nor painted my canvas, gold leafed the other one, or tidied the loft etc. etc!!!

Or it’s because I’m choosing to recharge in my garden with a cup of tea… YES, that’s it. That’s when I can I do it! So, that’s that!

But it’s ok. My mindfulness teacher’s radio show tonight will be exploring the saying ‘comparison is the thief of joy’, so I’m just going to tell you the same: IT’S OK! All of it. Whatever, however and all that jazz.

(I need all the laughing face emoji’s to put here, as I type with a wry smile on my face).

Keeping with the food theme… we have new chickens! Oh crikey, not to eat… but for eggs, of course!

There is much discussion on whether we should name them or not, as it just seems more distressing when they go if they are named. However, after a comment on Instagram suggesting the Spice Girls, we ran with that – literally!

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you the Spice Girls: Ginger, Chillie, Cumin and Paprika!!!

The older originals then had to be named (of course), so we went with Daisy, Daff (Daffodil) and Dolores (Doll) who is the definite rule rooster. They are currently warily navigating each other – the new girls somewhat tentatively and Dolores indignant and verbal.

We are separating and introducing them in equal measure. I do hope the pecks are minimal, but their produce bountiful!

Still food-related (which is no surprise when between us all the volume of food is great, and whilst savings are made on other things, the consummation of produce shows no signs of slowing), I was delighted when a parcel arrived containing Chunks of Devon pasties – which is also today’s TSV!

Seemingly so were the boys, as when I went to get them out of the fridge, it was the recycling bin that offered up the answer as to where they had gone (and look at the cat trying to get in on the action!).

“Delicious and full of proper potato and meat” are Joe’s words.

“I didn’t like them… I LOVED them” were Tom’s words.

Amusingly, I then received my order of The Real Pies Company, which I had placed some weeks ago – AND last week Dan only went and made a flipping pie! It was a joint effort with him making the pastry and I the filling.

And yes it was fantastic, but what a palaver! I’m more than happy to let the others take the strain.

We have lots of delicious food at QVC. It may help to ease the strain of the constant food preparation during this time.

One of the things I’m so terrifically happy about at the moment is when I hear that my smile may have lifted someone’s day or their mood, even just momentarily.

Having looked through all my pictures to find some you may like, I came across one that I posted last week. My gorgeous Gus, smiling just perfectly at the camera.

I figured this, plus my daughter’s beautiful teeth (that were photographed as part of her GCSE art exam) were a brilliant little way to tell you quickly that Lab have a great offer on Tuesday with a teeth whitening kit as our TSV!

They are made with minimal peroxide, so forget discomfort and sensitivities and say ‘hello!’ and ‘cheese!’ in a matter of only a couple of hours!!! I know, how amazing is that?!

I definitely want teeth like that… Maddies’, not Gussies’, I mean! Although, both smiles lift my heart, regardless.

I hope you can join me on air at QVC this Monday, Tuesday and at the weekend where smiles are completely guaranteed.

Otherwise, keep in touch with me here and on my Instagram and Twitter. I always try my best to chat back.

Huge love to you all (oh, and competition time in my next blog!).

Claire xxx

The post Keep on smiling! appeared first on Stories.

How are you all doing?

That is said from my heart. I know we all live very different lives, some of you will be with your families juggling things, worrying about things and hopefully cuddling your loved ones, as I am.

Yet, for some of you it will be with the quiet stillness of your own company and mind. I hope you can connect somehow with someone, family or otherwise. I hope perhaps QVC can offer you some light-heartedness and familiarity

Please do be in touch with me here and on my Instagram and Twitter accounts. I feel this time, like no other, is our chance to support each other.

Throughout my many years of writing to you with all the chatter of my life, my family and QVC, I have felt supported and held by you. So, please let me do the same for you if you need it.

I guess that you, like me, are adjusting and accommodating and finding some acceptance of this strange, uncertain and frightening time that we are all experiencing  – and yes,  we ARE truly in it together, aren’t we? Not one person can be exempt from this.

I pray daily we will survive and stay well. I try daily to give my thanks and be grateful for all I have and that I am lucky to still to have.

Our compassionate nature is being tested. WE are being tested and I, for one, always want to see the good, the kind and the beauty within people. And oh my goodness, it’s flooding and shining from so many people, wouldn’t you agree?

There will be some positivity that we will take from this time of solitude, and it offers us a chance to reflect and reassess. If you find things get on top of you, pause and step away. I certainly find I am happier if I’m not too engulfed in the constancy of news and negativity, to stop comparing what I am and am not doing and to be kind to myself…

Luckily for me, I got the most coveted of birthday gifts last week and was treated to a smoked salmon breakfast. Oh, how loved I am.

As I type this, I’m sitting on the day bed in my bikini top. I still haven’t gone for the walk I’ve been trying all day to do with Gus, and I’m in and amongst the rubble as Dan is replacing our deck area.

There is washing draped on airers and it’s been out there for two days now – so clearly dry! Yet, it’s still out crisping up in the sunshine.

I’m eating chopped apples, peppers and a yummy bit of salty Roquefort on crackers. Oh, how I’m appreciating the sun and warmth today. A full day off and in all senses of the word, we say it often, but… it’s the little things.

Without a doubt, we are seeing many of those.

So far today, my little things are:

• Managing to head into Gypsy and have an online Compassion Practice, which was beautiful.
• Talking everything through with one of my gorgeous friends Linds with a cup of tea.
• Messaging friends and receiving back lovely heartfelt messages.
• Half-wiping some dust laden surfaces… yup, work in progress!

They are weeny things, I know, but a calmness surrounds me today, for which I am grateful.

I really could do with doing a proper, decent manicure. I think a loud colour will be in order. I need to find my neon Orly shade. That will perk proceedings up to no end!

I’ve noticed I’m choosing the colour yellow a lot. I wore a fabulous yellow dress on Sunday by Helene Berman, I did take it off once I got home, but I certainly am choosing vibrancy in my colours as a way to combat any gloominess.

Dry hands, haircuts and root re-growth seem to be hot topics of conversation at the moment!

I for one have hair cutting scissors at home and clipped the boys’ hair (I deserve a gold star I think, it was rather stressful!). Dan on the other hand, after a beer or three, zipped his all off himself, miraculously not ending up with no hair.

I’ve searched through all my secret stashes and luckily found some hand creams that I forgot I had! I need them with all the hand washing, not to mention cleaning normal stuff, as well as chandeliers and hot tubs (gosh, how fancy!). Mine are getting quite sore and wrinkly.

As I found some treasures, I thought I would like to put a little set of stuff together for a Competition for you. I will check in as to how I do this, but keep your eyes peeled…

Now, at QVC we are trying to look to bring you the right things to get you through this time – the amazing offers and, as ever, a smile.

So I want to ask you, what else would you like to see us present on air? I know things are set so far in advance but you never know, maybe things can be changed around or tweaked.

Sunday’s Today’s Special Value that will be launching at 9pm Saturday night will be an opportunity to try the Powerfit Vibrating Fitness Plate (402458).

These have been so successful at QVC. Joe is disappearing into the garage daily, where he has set up an at-home gym. He’s feeling good for it and it’s a great use of time and a great release of happy hormones for him.

If space is limited for you, then I have also seen that we have a seated elliptical trainer, dumbbells and of course the ever popular Bodyblade.

The gardening shows on air are super and we will fill your screens this Easter weekend with some glorious plants. I know so many people are looking to get into their gardens and are desperate to plant up some things.

I wonder if we can grow actual bags of flour? And loo rolls?! What would you plant if it was a guaranteed crop? Real or otherwise…

I loved the idea of the Vegepod, which was on air the other weekend. Yes it’s pricey, but amazing. It comes with both the summer and winter cover, so you can harvest seeds, veggies, salad bits and whatever you fancy.

Even just a little yoghurt pot on the window sill with some salad in or tomatoes could give a sense of accomplishment. Remember, it’s those little things.

We shall be potting on our Olive trees into some not-so-little pots that Dan finally found after yonks of searching. A dose of Richard Jackson’s Flower Power will be boosting them.

I’m boosting myself with soooooo much, vitamin C, zinc, probiotics and 8Greens! If you want to and can order, then check out our selection of supplements, it could help and very well be the boost you need.

For now…

Take care, stay safe and keep wearing your smiles and and thank you’s from the bottom of our hearts to every single person helping us through all this… we are so very, very grateful.

Chat back to me, I’m here.

With my love,

Claire

xx

The post Hold onto your hats… appeared first on Stories.

Maddie and I held hands, cried a little and laughed during the performances, she said at the end: “that is the best thing I have ever seen” – not bad from a 15 year old!

Letters Live is a celebration of the enduring power of literary correspondence and one of the joys of the event is that you have no idea who is going to be reading on stage, or indeed what letter they are going to be bringing alive. It is so powerful, thought-provoking and so emotional in parts.

It was March 8th International women’s day and the audience was certainly full of women; it felt very special. It was set up in 2013 at the Tabernacle in London, with a goal to share remarkable letters written over the centuries and from around the world.

At our inspiring event at WOW (Women of the World at London Southbank Centre) Sally Phillips, Meera Syal, Amanda Abbington, Louise Brealey, Olivia Coleman, Jordan Stephens, Daisy Ridley, Rose McGowan and Ncuti Gatwa read, and Amyra performed a musical piece. If you can find the chance to go PLEASE PLEASE do, look up Letters Live and see when the next event will be, it was a truly incredible experience.

Being among my spectacular friends and their daughters, partaking in Prêt-à-Porter the Couture Cakewalk Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley together before Letters Live felt a complete privilege, and to drive home listening to debates in the car, to raucous laughter and singing and hear ‘views on serious and crazy things, while all sharing a bond of love and shared experience was truly magical, a day to be grateful for.

So that was my stand-out moment for this blog for sure, though you know me I’m always on the lookout for the little things that we may take for granted, I’m noticing more and more the smallest things, it’s a great exercise and one I can highly recommend as a praise in appreciating one’s life more.

Speaking of appreciating one’s life more, I finally managed to deliver a large bag of clothes, coats etc that I had been collecting to pass onto a charity nearby who are doing amazing things. Having passed over the bag and coming home, I received a thank you message from the lady who  who made ME feel amazing with her words, yet SHE is the amazing lady who is doing all the work…. it struck me again, aren’t words powerful? Let’s all endeavour to use them wisely, lavishly and most importantly kindly.

I’ve had some super shows at QVC recently, our offers and choices just keep on giving, with fun and education being provided in equal measure! I won’t name all my fab guests or co-hosts but suffice to say it’s a joy!

So what’s ‘hot stuff’ at QVC right now? Well, without a doubt hand cream galore is needed to combat our rigorous hand washing, I’ve looked and we have top-rated L’Occitane one, a favourite of mine for for years in a number of options and flavours. Lulu’s Time Bomb also offer a fantastic hand treatment. Both brand offerings are in stock along with many other brands, so it’s well worth a look.

Mother’s Day is approaching, and if you fancy an alternative to real flowers then a Peony bouquet could be a lovely alternative. They are so long-lasting, so be prepared to think of something else next year! I rather like the look of this real-touch tulips collection with faux ranunculas and astranthia, but honestly there are so many choices on our website.

In other news, Maddie’s prom is looming! The dress is being altered to fit as she’d like it super figure-hugging at the bottom and fishtailing slightly, it is gorgeous and she’s excited.

Luckily I grabbed it when it was reduced and she’s wearing her shoes from when she was a bridesmaid, so I am happy to buy a little clutch bag for her. The trouble is she doesn’t love my choices! But I’m ear-marking this lovely gold-coloured simple clutch by Radley for her, which I think will be perfect and I can borrow it afterwards!

I on the other hand, am lusting after the Amanda Wakeley bags in the Gold Weave. It’s so divine, but no way for Maddie, regardless of how many jobs she does for me! We are hoping she will be snapped up for baby sitting as the wish list of trainers, clothes, make-up bits etc is ever-growing!

We are still awaiting summer aren’t we, but to help us on our way and actually great for coverage etc while we wait, Renee Greenstein has her fantastic TSV of two maxi dresses coming on Monday with so many lovely prints and colour ways to choose from.

The plain colour dress has an elbow sleeve length is super flattering and comes partnered up with the corresponding printed sleeveless dress. I do love the animal print, which comes with classic black, but the tomato red colour Renee brings is always fabulous and will be striking and empowering to wear I reckon, but oooooh… the tropical print, which again teams up with a black dress in the plain, looks delicious, fun and perky – and we all need a little fun in our fashion to get us through sometimes don’t we?!

I do hope you are all staying healthy and strong and washing those hands well, I had to laugh as I was singing ‘Happy Birthday to me’ twice over in the loo at work (the recommended time to wash our hands) I came out to squeals from Jackie and Ali thinking it WAS my actual birthday! Still a couple more weeks away for mine, though Ali and Kathy are racing toward their very special days…

March truly is a marvelous month.

Much love to you all,

Claire x

The post The power of words appeared first on Stories.

Our riad was perfect. It was so welcoming and traditional. When we found sun beds and hats on the roof terrace, we were well away. I became “Miss March” (my birthday month) of the Calendar Girls!

It was certainly a heady assault on the senses in the souks, with incense and spices pervading the air and a seemingly magnified kaleidoscope of colour and texture wherever we looked. I felt less nervous this time than when Dan and I went, perhaps it was the safety in numbers?

Or maybe because we had a French teacher in our midst. She assisted our bartering in the souks, resulting in some magnificent loot, including a Moroccan tagine that was miraculously unbroken on the journey home and leather bags which were a total bargain. We had a guy running after us down the market to applaud the bartering abilities Kate had displayed.

We also had the most hilarious Hammam experience. I honestly don’t think I’ve laughed as much in forever – until we cried, in fact! It will be wholly lost in translation, but here’s a brief synopsis (as I’d hate to leave you out)…

So, four out of the seven of us went in the Hammam first where we were washed, scrubbed and rinsed within an inch of our lives. At one point, I was desperately thinking at what moment do I shout ‘STOP’, as my shins surely cannot have any more skin left on them…! They did by the way, and blimey I’ve never been as soft and silky with a lovely colour achieved (protected by Ultrasun, of course), so it was well worth the intense exfoliation (she says now!).

I was mid-way through, when suddenly Kate was stripped of her ‘everything’s’… in such a flash! She startled, stood an inch taller and mouthed the word ‘NAKED’ at me with wide eyes. I’d barely registered all this when – boom – ‘twas my turn!

It was honestly so funny. We were slipping around on the marble slabs like sardines and certainly now know one another a whole heap more! We couldn’t contain ourselves as we sat drinking mint tea afterwards, knowing the other three were going through the same process…

We experienced the culture, saw the sights and took the photos, and whilst they say a picture speaks 1000 words, the essence simply cannot be captured in a photograph. I would highly recommend you experience it for yourselves. (Plus, some of my photos are just not suitable! As I’m sure you can imagine)…

I have now arrived home and straight away ordered a Manta hairbrush for two of the girls. I was honestly horrified when I saw Kate using a metal comb – yes, metal – with broken teeth to comb her hair… argggghhhh! It’s a NO! You know me, it’s all about nurturing the locks.

They were in awe of my Dyson Airwrap, so I did their hair with it super speedily and it looked gorgeous. We discussed the price and I suggested that if any of them were interested, they should use the current four Easy Pay Interest-Free Instalment offer to enable them to trial it for a month. If they find that they don’t use it enough or love it enough, they can simply send it back! I can also tell you the same thing for the Dyson Supersonic!

Considering we do wear our hair all the time, you will surely want to keep it once you see the difference after using it.

Talking of hair (now there’s a surprise!) I listened to Inside QVC, the fabulous podcast hosted by Will Gowing. This week, the guest will be Paul Percival from Percy & Reed. He is so interesting and such a lovely guy. Will really does ask some fabulous questions to draw-out his guests.

I believe next week will be a montage of some fabulous inspirational women who have previously been on the podcast, which will include the fabulous Ali Keenan, a recommended listen for sure.

I shall be on air on Friday with Paul, as we shall be bringing the fabulous Percy & Reed hair collection made with the limited edition fragrance ‘Eau My Goodness‘ as this Friday’s Today’s Special Value, created especially for QVC. But it’s on pre-sell NOW!

The collection consists of three styling products alongside the top selling Perfectly Perfecting Wonder Shampoo and Conditioner at a super price, of course. Can you imagine if I asked Paul to do Fearne Cotton’s latest haircut, which he did for her, on me… live on air. Sorely tempted.

In fact, I do have a photo of it in my ‘hair mood board’ on my phone, which I was pleased to hear Paul highly recommends to do ahead of a visit to a stylist, to ensure the whole picture can be achieved. He says his job is a joy, as it’s all about making people happy!

Actually, I have been approached to possibly speak at a big event this summer focused on happiness. It’s a scary prospect, as whilst I speak for a living to talk about Tom, my son is a whole different kind of thing and something I’ve only done once before. We shall see…

Talking of spreading a little bit of happy, I’ve ordered a Kim & Co jumpsuit for Hayley as a thank you following our trip away, as she was our chief organiser. We were so grateful for her brilliance.

The reason for the jumpsuit is because it turns out she borrows one from a friend who had told her to show it to me. Well, I sooooo wish I’d been filming her, because she LOVES it! The flattering fit, the waistband, the drape… you name, she was telling me! It was like listening to myself on air. So I decided, no more borrowing – she should have her own!

There are so many choices of colours and prints but I ordered the same black one that she was borrowing, as I know she loves it. I shall be sending her a link to our website because I’m sure she’ll be hooked and want more.

Don’t forget our website is full of fabulous offers and with the excitement of an extra day this Leap Year! Happy Birthday to Nik and Rich, the two Leap Year babies that I know!

Right, I must go as I need to be speedy, due to having written this yesterday and managing to delete it ahead of sending it over to my copywriter… yup, I know!!!

The sun is out, so it should be a marvelous day. I’ll see you on air a little later and on Friday morning. Have a super week.

Much love,
Claire xxx

The post Fun and laughter in Marrakech appeared first on Stories.

To help ease you in, we have a fabulous Fashion Event here on QVC, with so many wonderful new pieces from a collection of both our much-loved and newer brands.

One of this week’s Big Deals is a specially designed dress from Monsoon…

It’s available in easy-to-wear colours and – oh my word – a lovely soft 100% viscose, which drapes beautifully and feels gentle on the skin.

As it was Valentine’s Day when I was attempting to capture some pictures, I opted for the red! A pretty red, not too bright or harsh and a lovely mix of dots and florals combined. It does a good job of masking when you’re feeling less than vibrant – I always feel colour does that so well.

It’s a great midi-length with working buttons all the way through, so you can be as risque as you’d like! A flashing of legs and all that. And whilst I found the neckline fine, it could easily be pinned a little higher should you wish…

Depending on your footwear choice, I think it can take you to loads of places! It’s smart in the navy and black option, but throw on some pumps and a denim jacket and it will become that fab dressed-down look.

I slipped it straight over the head, although there is also a side zip to add to the great fit. It is that perfect ‘go anywhere, do anything’ dress yet feels so comfy… my kind of dress, for sure.

I tried to show off this dress … oh believe me I tried!!!… as this little montage will prove.

June (our make-up artist) and Michael were making me laugh so much as they were completely taking the mickey out of my attempts to get some pics… whilst laying on the floor may perhaps have taken it a tad too far (I was just trying to see if I could get a longer shot, you see!!!) we ended up laughing – a lot ! I’m smiling as I write this, that’s good for the soul, is it not?!

In fact, I’m off to Marrakech with the girls this week and it will be so perfect to take with me because the sun is going to be shining!!! Woohoo I cannot wait! Hamman’s and Camel Rides are on the agenda and Dan wants me to bring back some spices, but I’m not sure I’ll have the haggle abilities… I bet my friend Kate will have that skill, though! So watch out Dan, I may be chartering a plane to bring back my wares!

I failed to get anything else much worth sharing with you, aside from this picture of the delicious MarlaWynne TSV for this Tuesday…

I wore the Sea Grass shade here. The colours MarlaWynne bring us are always so classy and elegant – we also have Oyster, Copper, Black and Dark Slate available, too.

It drapes and falls away from the body, it’s effortlessly elegant and it’s kind of sleek with the placket at the front. I always feel well dressed and sophisticated whenever I wear it and I really think it’s one my Momie will look fabulous in, too. She’s often needing to dress for occasions and gets a feeling of dread, so with this in her repertoire to wear with loose trousers and a little jewellery too, I suspect she’ll be happy… It’s not long until we celebrate Mother’s Day after all, so it could be a smug ‘I’m sorted’ feeling for me!!! I think either the Sea Grass or Oyster for her…

I think we have some incredible and knowledgeable, not to mention stylish (well, that’s a given) fashion guests at QVC and it will be a joy to show lots of our new season fashions over the coming few weeks. Don’t miss out on these fabulous offers with a limited time scale though, and enjoy perusing our website where you will be spoilt for choice!

A Marrakech catch-up coming next!!! Unless the camel runs away with me, of course!!!

Much love until then,

Claire xx

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However, it’s been relentlessly wet and rather dark… so to see the blue sky and some sun out amidst the wind and cold as I write is rather lovely.

Forgive me for my less frequent and chatty blogs of late… too many tabs open on the computer (my head!!) and I’m just trying to stay afloat. I know from all your wonderful comments here and on my Instagram and Twitter feeds that you are the kindest of souls and that so many of us are juggling loads.

It’s important therefore to stop and recognise that ‘this is a moment of difficulty’ and knowing others are also experiencing a less than easy time does actually keep perspective.

My Compassion course, which is stage 2 of the Mindfulness Association, is providing an outlet. It’s hard as you look inwards – and crikey there’s a lot in there – that one has to sit with and work through, but I love doing it and I feel this is a year of exploration and development.

Family life is full on here. Maddie forgot her phone this morning and when Dan kindly drove to catch her up on her commute I spotted Joe’s phone on the stairs! What on earth… now that shows there’s some other minds in the house that are also rather too full.

Madds is panicking about her GCSE’s. Dance Practical and Art have become a little overwhelming for her; there’s SO much to do and thank heavens I was able to extract that information from her, so tonight we can calmly look at where she’s up to and I hope I can help.

‘Extracting information’ is actually quite a pertinent phrase at the moment, as I feel it’s all being sucked out of us regarding Tom and his next steps… a challenging time with meeting after meeting and people spending a mere moment in time with us and basing decisions about his future on their findings – bearing in mind he has good days and bad days and so much can also depend on his mood as to what he says and does. I feel fearful, frustrated and uncertain.

Add into to the mix a difficult time for my middle one and the boat feels decidedly rocky. BUT… we talk, we do, we love and we will crack on and navigate into smoother waters. I am certain.

I posted this on my social media page as it really felt appropriate and SO made me laugh…

One piece of advice I’ve been given is to get outside, re-tune with nature, re-balance and renewing. I mean, just look at the genius that is Mother Nature happening quietly, silently and constantly right under our noses.

This hibernation period of winter should maybe teach us a lesson that we too need to stop, re-charge and then, like the little new shoots I’m spotting all around, we too will surge forth with our equivalent ‘new shoots’.

I was beyond fortunate to visit my two happy places last week and breathed in the beauty of the Dales, and then at the end of the week I absorbed the sea air in Suffolk.

It was a flying visit to both, but a visit nonetheless and a morning walk on the beach set me up for the day, that’s for sure. I want to be there NOW… but work is calling !

All this getting-out-more that I have every intention of doing will please my boy Gus immensely. What Labrador wouldn’t look hopeful when that’s suggested!

Correct attire that’s warm and appropriate is needed, so I have been having a sort-out and now have a bag of coats from us all, including footwear to pass on to the local shelter, who do an incredible job in feeding and clothing the people who need it in our area.

A cleanse and a purge can also make a nice little space for some newness!! So a road test of Emu’s by is always a pleasure !

I know Sarah Booker always puts the boots through their paces, as you can see here. More often than not, she too is on a beach near her home.

Beaches are not required in order to own these beauties coming up as this Friday’s TSV (178509).

They are warm, cosy (as we are due some cold aren’t we?) and brilliantly constructed and stylish to boot… see what I did there!? Where on earth do some of these phrases originate from?at a fabulous price. They will look amazing striding out on pavements, flagstones, fields, cobbles and tarmac any-flippin-where !!!!

Oh, hold on… here you go:

The idiom to boot, meaning in addition or besides, has nothing to do with footwear. This sense of boot is left over from the Old English bot

And Middle English bote, where the word meant an advantage or something included in a bargain, and the phrase to boot has been in common usage since the time of Old English “to bote”

Incidentally, is it just me or when you copy and paste, do you hold your finger in the air thinking ‘I mustn’t touch anything else till I’ve pasted as it’s magically suspended in my finger..?!’

So, a new month is looming, so new Pick of the Month’s for Gardening and Beauty will be yours on QVC with zero P&P.

And the Big Deals are a superb selection and the fabulous brands on offer from Sunday midnight for a whole week are Laura Geller, Kim & Co, Vionic and Skullcandy.

There’s still a couple of days left for this weeks offers, don’t forget!

My latest QVC buy that gave me a smile and a little buzz is right here from Joules:

The prints is so happy, sunny and putting a great message out there – and it’s felt the love on my Instagram! Beee yourself, save the BEES, BEEEautiful and possibly my favourite: BooBEES!!

I think my Queen Bee print may buzz off and sell out soon, but it’s also available featuring other gorgeous animals, too!

Oh, and on another note: who even knew Calligraphy was soooo tricky??!! I so enjoyed my workshop experience alongside my sister in law but was surprised at how hard it was!

I assumed I’d be quite good at it (never assume, it makes an ass out of you and me!)… thank you to the dearly missed Jill Goldsmith for that ‘oft said phrase!

Oh, and I admit I was a tad disappointed to be called Claire as it just didn’t look swirly and wooshy enough… I was given the ink and the nib to practice with, so be warned, you may get a handwritten calligraphic blog next (if there ever were such a thing).

Huge love to you all and I’ll tell you as I’m telling myself…. ‘WE’VE GOT THIS!’

See you on QVC soon.

Claire xxxx

The post We’ve got this! appeared first on Stories.

New Year… same old rubbish carried around in mine!!!

Never ceases to amuse me and yes I think I’ve blogged similarly before, but it’s ‘Handbag Challenge’ once again! So hold your breath!

But, before I begin, Happy New Year to you all. I do hope it’s been lovely so far. Perhaps not the best choice of words for January – hopefully it’s all normal and unspoiled by things.

If not that, then hopefully you are coping with this wet month. I have to say, I have seen some fabulously inspiring, lovely, lovely things floating around on social media regarding ‘Canuary’ and obviously loads about Veganuary, neither of which I can profess to doing. I’m on the hunker down and Getthroughuary!!! How about you?

Nothing dramatic, but I hasten to add just a feeling of far too many tabs open (like a computer ) and just like the computer, I feel I’m going slow.

And my inability to exercise after this walloping virus/flu malarkey probably hasn’t helped the general mood, but I have a day in my diary marked to DO NOTHING! It’s when I turn the page, so that’ll be smashing! Of course I’ll do something, it’s just right now there are no ‘absolute must-have to do’ stuff!

Now, back to my handbag chatter… release breath!

Here’s MY current extra load of stuff I’m carting around… it does make me laugh…

• Wallet
• Tangle Teezer
• Nail varnishes, all Nails Inc
• Lemon oil
• Glasses case
• Reading glasses… not in the case!
• Fridge magnets
• Car parking permit for QVC
• Tape measure
• Earphones
• Charger, minus it’s wires, so pointless carrying around!
• Set of keys
• Benefit mascara
• L’occitane hand cream
• Bag of fabric for colour matching
• Chewing gums… NOT in packet… nice !
• Pain relief tablets
• Migraine tablet doses
• Pairs of earrings (QVC product… does that count as stealing?! at least I’ve found them!!)
• Pens
• Packet of tissues
• Roller clip
• Silver bag of girlie bits plus
• Hairbands
• La Tweez tweezers
• Spare daith piercing in case mine comes out
• Bareminerals lippies
• Throat sweets
• A handful of loose vitamins
• … and 7p… I’M RICH !

Now, clearly that is not all needed and will not be transferred into this sleek and delightful cross-body bag of dreams. With its padded chevrons and immaculate stitching.

It’s a moment to cherish the filling carefully of the new best friend… may I introduce Clara from Ashwood.

It’s not quite Claire… but close enough for me to feel she’s me!!

She projects a well turned out exterior …

She stands on her own…

She’s medium sized! And she’s all about the detail.

She’s rather glam, bright and vivacious or calm and gentle… yup, I can be both.

… she’s me in a handbag !!

Clara will be coming to your screens in all her glory, for TODAY’S TSV. I for one will be super happily showing her off.

Huge love, and I’ll be back with a proper catch up – as soon as I can close some other tabs!!!

Claire xxxx

The post Today’s Ashwood TSV and what’s in my handbag…? appeared first on Stories.